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Songs of the Abolitionists

A selection of U.S. anti-slavery hymns, ballads, anthems, and rallying songs from the 1840's to 1860's sung a cappella. The tunes are lovely, the lyrics heartfelt, the vocals mellow - some with full harmony. Two songs feature The Proper Ladies duo.

ABOUT THIS ALBUM

Album Notes

“Fantastic!” "What a beautiful voice you have. The songs are gentle and heart-wrenching.""I received the CD this afternoon and have listened to the entire disc! I really love it. Beautiful singing and harmony...Congratulations!""I would like to give the CD to several people as thank-you gifts ...""I ... think it so good that there will be no problem selling it in our bookstore and probably many others! ...great job!!!!!"

COMMENTS FROM THE ARTIST:

I had no particular plan when I started this recording, only some tuneful historic songs I wanted to sing. These selections began to coalesce into what I think of as a journey for modern ears through some of the songs and sentiments of abolitionists from around 1840 until the end of the US Civil War. Whether strictly antislavery or not, the words heard here are from the pens of such activists - men and women, black and white.

From the late 1830's a very few women were bold enough to begin speaking in public, but only (morally suspect) women of the theater would ever think of 'performing' alone. However, from the number of women who wrote songs, sang together in small groups and joined men in larger choirs, I am certain that many would have loved the chance. Always, I sing for them as well as for all who are still seeking freedom.

The problem of slavery and the oppression of women has not disappeared in the modern world. I donate a portion of each CD sale to FREE THE SLAVES at www.freetheslaves.net You can help too!

A note on my CD's cover: Briefly, the cover design is meant to suggest a flag and a cross - most abolitionists were Christian. It is also perhaps a crossroads and, as a 5-year-old of my acquaintance said, “I know what that is. It’s a window!” I hope it is - a window into the past. No matter how dimly we are able to perceive what’s back there, it’s worth looking. - Deborah